Depression Therapists in South Plainfield, NJ
![Photo of Isabel Clemente, LSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7da01403-ff67-4f78-a3a1-39dc22b9743f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Isabel Clemente
Counselor, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Plainfield, NJ 07080 (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Isabel and I am a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey and a Level 1 Reiki practitioner. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University in 2021. I have experience providing mental health services and case management to a wide range of populations, including youth, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with populations who struggled with a variety of mental and behavioral health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, and autism.
Hi! My name is Isabel and I am a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey and a Level 1 Reiki practitioner. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University in 2021. I have experience providing mental health services and case management to a wide range of populations, including youth, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with populations who struggled with a variety of mental and behavioral health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, and autism.
![Photo of Doris Ellen Schueler, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e514512-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My specialty is in treating children with depression or anxiety related to family or school problems.
I am a child and family psychologist and have been practicing since 1981. I am dedicated to working with families with issues related to parenting concerns, academic problems, anxiety and depression as well as many other issues. I also am experienced in treating adults with depression and anxiety issues as well as relationship issues including marital problems.
My specialty is in treating children with depression or anxiety related to family or school problems.
I am a child and family psychologist and have been practicing since 1981. I am dedicated to working with families with issues related to parenting concerns, academic problems, anxiety and depression as well as many other issues. I also am experienced in treating adults with depression and anxiety issues as well as relationship issues including marital problems.
![Photo of Cindy Karnell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fefd3e7-0fd4-4e8a-b407-730241707bf3/1/320x400.png)
Cindy Karnell is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. She has assisted people in liberating themselves from the traumatic events that they have experienced. The mind and body are connected; as a result, we can rewire our brains through therapy. Cindy provides individual treatment that can help with depression and anger that may have become a part of your life, as well as mood disorders, depression, and stress management struggles. Cindy graduated from Caldwell University with a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and earned her BA in Psychology from Santa Fe College.
Cindy Karnell is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. She has assisted people in liberating themselves from the traumatic events that they have experienced. The mind and body are connected; as a result, we can rewire our brains through therapy. Cindy provides individual treatment that can help with depression and anger that may have become a part of your life, as well as mood disorders, depression, and stress management struggles. Cindy graduated from Caldwell University with a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and earned her BA in Psychology from Santa Fe College.
![Photo of Rebecca Warrington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4b40ca4-5f5b-457f-aa83-b75d28cf448d/1/320x400.png)
Rebecca Warrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Plainfield, NJ 07080 (Online Only)
Rebecca Warrington is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience providing therapy to adults and couples tackling life’s challenges. Her expertise stems from an international client base helping those with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, work-related stress, women’s issues, and other life transitions. Author, speaker, broadcaster, and mindfulness authority, Rebecca draws upon her deep knowledge to form a distinctive mind-body approach working with clients.
Rebecca Warrington is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience providing therapy to adults and couples tackling life’s challenges. Her expertise stems from an international client base helping those with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, work-related stress, women’s issues, and other life transitions. Author, speaker, broadcaster, and mindfulness authority, Rebecca draws upon her deep knowledge to form a distinctive mind-body approach working with clients.
![Photo of Leigh Polin - Leigh Polin LCSW, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59aa8eed-0e8e-4e0b-8aa2-b88ea77e5131/6/320x400.jpeg)
Leigh Polin LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
A deeper connection with self can lead to greater life satisfaction and more ease, both within yourself and in relationship with others. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) can help facilitate this process. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and an IFS trained therapist. I utilize an integrated approach, focusing on the whole person. In addition to IFS and EMDR, I utilize Mindfulness, Meditation and Polyvagal Theory. All of these modalities can help with an array of challenges including, Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD.
A deeper connection with self can lead to greater life satisfaction and more ease, both within yourself and in relationship with others. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) can help facilitate this process. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and an IFS trained therapist. I utilize an integrated approach, focusing on the whole person. In addition to IFS and EMDR, I utilize Mindfulness, Meditation and Polyvagal Theory. All of these modalities can help with an array of challenges including, Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD.
![Photo of Cheryl Lucas-Robinson - Cherly Temple Health, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaf8dd75-a2cb-4d87-ac34-db24d9161c38/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cherly Temple Health, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Plainfield, NJ 07080 (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Welcome! My name is Cheryl Lucas-Robinson. I am licensed in the state of IL and NJ, offering telehealth services in both states. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have been working in the field of Social Work for 16 years. Since the beginning of my career, l have specialized in treating individuals and families in the healthcare setting. One of my favorite aspects of my career is working with an array of different people who come from different cultural backgrounds. I provide a safe, open-minded, and compassionate environment for sharing your concerns, fears, feelings, and thoughts.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Welcome! My name is Cheryl Lucas-Robinson. I am licensed in the state of IL and NJ, offering telehealth services in both states. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have been working in the field of Social Work for 16 years. Since the beginning of my career, l have specialized in treating individuals and families in the healthcare setting. One of my favorite aspects of my career is working with an array of different people who come from different cultural backgrounds. I provide a safe, open-minded, and compassionate environment for sharing your concerns, fears, feelings, and thoughts.
![Photo of Erin Bennett - Erin Bennett Counseling , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69b39282-a831-495e-b018-1a22a9826d43/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Bennett Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Plainfield, NJ 07080 (Online Only)
Life can be challenging, and relationships often come with their complexities. It can be difficult to maintain a sense of self while navigating these obstacles, especially when compounded by trauma, loss, low self-esteem, relationship conflicts, addiction, or depression. My goal is to help you navigate this journey, discover your truth, and guide you toward a life of greater happiness and peace. Overcoming inner struggles and expressing your thoughts are essential steps for growth and change. While building healthy connections is vital for happiness, the key lies in how well you care for and honor yourself.
Life can be challenging, and relationships often come with their complexities. It can be difficult to maintain a sense of self while navigating these obstacles, especially when compounded by trauma, loss, low self-esteem, relationship conflicts, addiction, or depression. My goal is to help you navigate this journey, discover your truth, and guide you toward a life of greater happiness and peace. Overcoming inner struggles and expressing your thoughts are essential steps for growth and change. While building healthy connections is vital for happiness, the key lies in how well you care for and honor yourself.
![Photo of Jophelle Pierre, MA, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/827f7142-968f-4f0a-af14-e55432948f5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jophelle Pierre
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
South Plainfield, NJ 07080 (Online Only)
Working with victims of trauma and mental challenges (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder) have further informed the need for systemic interventions for client’s growth.
Seeking to connect with a therapist or counselor during challenging times in our lifetime is a courageous act; one in which is not to be taken lightly. As a first-generation immigrant, familiarity with cultural norms and expectations can be oftentimes misunderstood. Each of us have our own unique familial and cultural ways of engaging and navigating in relationships and handling marital issues, family conflicts, work stressors, and even our self-worth and self-care. I would love to assist in exploring and navigating this process with you to gain better balance in a greater, healthier, and graceful manner.
Working with victims of trauma and mental challenges (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder) have further informed the need for systemic interventions for client’s growth.
Seeking to connect with a therapist or counselor during challenging times in our lifetime is a courageous act; one in which is not to be taken lightly. As a first-generation immigrant, familiarity with cultural norms and expectations can be oftentimes misunderstood. Each of us have our own unique familial and cultural ways of engaging and navigating in relationships and handling marital issues, family conflicts, work stressors, and even our self-worth and self-care. I would love to assist in exploring and navigating this process with you to gain better balance in a greater, healthier, and graceful manner.
![Photo of Vasista Behavioral Health - Vasista, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4280b3f4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vasista
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
At Vasista , we help individuals of different age groups , cultural backgrounds work through Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral issues, Loss, Mood Disorders and Coach for Work life balance, stress management, conflict resolution and also provide EAP (Employee Assistance Program), Wellness Programs.
Vasista , a group practice providing mental Health /psychology professional services by matching highly trained, experienced and Licensed experts to meet the needs of individuals, couples and families from different backgrounds.We believe that one size does not fit all. We understand that we come with unique backgrounds and experiences and need a professional that you find comfortable to help you through the process of therapy and its our job to gain that trust and work with you.
At Vasista , we help individuals of different age groups , cultural backgrounds work through Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral issues, Loss, Mood Disorders and Coach for Work life balance, stress management, conflict resolution and also provide EAP (Employee Assistance Program), Wellness Programs.
Vasista , a group practice providing mental Health /psychology professional services by matching highly trained, experienced and Licensed experts to meet the needs of individuals, couples and families from different backgrounds.We believe that one size does not fit all. We understand that we come with unique backgrounds and experiences and need a professional that you find comfortable to help you through the process of therapy and its our job to gain that trust and work with you.
![Photo of Gabriella Tavarez, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4d7f219-fc39-476b-8e65-d7c48d16544c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriella Tavarez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) of Puerto Rican descent and is a strong supporter of marginalized populations, such as people of color and those within the LGBTQ+ community. She enjoys working with adolescents and adults to help them navigate through different life circumstances in a way where they feel understood and empowered. Gabriella specializes in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, women’s issues, and self-esteem issues. Gabriella completed her Bachelor's degree in Sociology at Rider University and her Master's degree in Social Work at Rutgers University.
Gabriella Tavarez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) of Puerto Rican descent and is a strong supporter of marginalized populations, such as people of color and those within the LGBTQ+ community. She enjoys working with adolescents and adults to help them navigate through different life circumstances in a way where they feel understood and empowered. Gabriella specializes in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, women’s issues, and self-esteem issues. Gabriella completed her Bachelor's degree in Sociology at Rider University and her Master's degree in Social Work at Rutgers University.
![Photo of Cassie Repert, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25c8d21a-7242-4aec-8449-041b4b7e88f0/1/320x400.png)
Cassie Repert is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in the state of New Jersey who has over 2 years of valuable experience working one-on-one with adolescents and adults in settings ranging from shelters, transitional housing, and college counseling environments. Throughout this time, Cassie has worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, low self-esteem, PTSD, and trauma. Cassie completed her Bachelor’s degree in Family Science and Human Development from Montclair State University and went on to earn her Master’s degree in Social Work from Monmouth University soon afterward.
Cassie Repert is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in the state of New Jersey who has over 2 years of valuable experience working one-on-one with adolescents and adults in settings ranging from shelters, transitional housing, and college counseling environments. Throughout this time, Cassie has worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, low self-esteem, PTSD, and trauma. Cassie completed her Bachelor’s degree in Family Science and Human Development from Montclair State University and went on to earn her Master’s degree in Social Work from Monmouth University soon afterward.
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![Photo of Tara Garie, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33b61cc7-9c08-4d24-9254-340e19527b93/1/320x400.png)
Tara Garie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
South Plainfield, NJ 07080 (Online Only)
Tara Garie is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey and Pennsylvania with over 8 years of experience providing therapeutic services. She helps teens, adults, and seniors to better cope with stress, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and many other types of disorders. Tara also has experience working with grief and gender identity issues.
Tara Garie is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey and Pennsylvania with over 8 years of experience providing therapeutic services. She helps teens, adults, and seniors to better cope with stress, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and many other types of disorders. Tara also has experience working with grief and gender identity issues.
![Photo of Matthew Donohue, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df195b65-5b89-400e-a3ec-bbf1668f19f7/2/320x400.png)
Matthew Donohue is an LPC & 6th-year doctoral student working toward a PsyD. in clinical psychology. Matthew specializes in treating anxiety disorders, major depression disorders, grief, & substance abuse. He works with adults, couples, and adolescents 16 yrs. of age and above. Matthew operates under the theoretical background of client-centered therapy as well as rational emotive therapy. Are you wrestling with feelings of depression or anxiety? As Matthew works with you in therapy, you can uncover the reasons for these emotions and behaviors. Sometimes these maladaptive coping mechanisms can stem from past trauma or deeper wounds.
Matthew Donohue is an LPC & 6th-year doctoral student working toward a PsyD. in clinical psychology. Matthew specializes in treating anxiety disorders, major depression disorders, grief, & substance abuse. He works with adults, couples, and adolescents 16 yrs. of age and above. Matthew operates under the theoretical background of client-centered therapy as well as rational emotive therapy. Are you wrestling with feelings of depression or anxiety? As Matthew works with you in therapy, you can uncover the reasons for these emotions and behaviors. Sometimes these maladaptive coping mechanisms can stem from past trauma or deeper wounds.
![Photo of Nicole Schaefer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f87139b-6321-4e7d-a1fc-cab058f81588/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Schaefer is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) with four years of clinical experience providing counseling services to adolescent and adult clients who were experiencing depression, anxiety, relational conflict, life transitions, and difficulties coping with stressors. Nicole completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Rutgers University and received her Master of Arts in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from the City University of New York, John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She also received an Advanced Certificate in Victimology Studies.
Nicole Schaefer is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) with four years of clinical experience providing counseling services to adolescent and adult clients who were experiencing depression, anxiety, relational conflict, life transitions, and difficulties coping with stressors. Nicole completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Rutgers University and received her Master of Arts in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from the City University of New York, John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She also received an Advanced Certificate in Victimology Studies.
![Photo of Wendy Hollinger, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b510984-95fd-405e-af39-76600121759a/1/320x400.png)
Wendy Hollinger is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) who has over 7 years of experience assisting adolescents, adults, and seniors to better manage the effects of anger, depression, anxiety, poor communication, or underdeveloped-coping skills. Wendy earned her Master's degree in Social Work from Rutgers University. She identifies as a therapist, mother, wife, daughter, aunt, niece, cousin, friend, and co-worker. Wearing all of these hats has taught her to value relationships. As a therapist, she is also a firm believer that all relationships begin with the individual.
Wendy Hollinger is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) who has over 7 years of experience assisting adolescents, adults, and seniors to better manage the effects of anger, depression, anxiety, poor communication, or underdeveloped-coping skills. Wendy earned her Master's degree in Social Work from Rutgers University. She identifies as a therapist, mother, wife, daughter, aunt, niece, cousin, friend, and co-worker. Wearing all of these hats has taught her to value relationships. As a therapist, she is also a firm believer that all relationships begin with the individual.
![Photo of Olivia Benoit, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a36a9010-251f-427d-95cc-ec63779cf229/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivia Benoit
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Plainfield, NJ 07080 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Olivia Benoit; I became a Licensed Drug and Alcohol counselor in 2018 and a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2022. I started working in the field as a counselor intern in 2012. I have worked in plethora of outpatient and inpatient Substance Abuse and Mental Health settings over the course of 10 years. I have primarily worked with young adults, teens and adolescents; with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, women issues and adjustment disorders. I strive to provide a safe, judgment-free, and compassionate space that allows my clients to share their concerns, fears, feelings, and thoughts.
Welcome! My name is Olivia Benoit; I became a Licensed Drug and Alcohol counselor in 2018 and a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2022. I started working in the field as a counselor intern in 2012. I have worked in plethora of outpatient and inpatient Substance Abuse and Mental Health settings over the course of 10 years. I have primarily worked with young adults, teens and adolescents; with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, women issues and adjustment disorders. I strive to provide a safe, judgment-free, and compassionate space that allows my clients to share their concerns, fears, feelings, and thoughts.
![Photo of Lisa A. Perry, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aa07508-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa A. Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
"Being challenged in life is inevitable, being defeated is optional." (R. Crawford) All too often we find ourselves in a space where it seems as though we've hit a wall. A wall of mounting emotions, and feelings we try desperately to avoid. The only way to get through it is to face it. Decide today that you are worth your time, your attention, and your money because you are! The first step towards taking control of the sadness, fear, or chaos can be as simple as a phone call. Make the call and take control today!
"Being challenged in life is inevitable, being defeated is optional." (R. Crawford) All too often we find ourselves in a space where it seems as though we've hit a wall. A wall of mounting emotions, and feelings we try desperately to avoid. The only way to get through it is to face it. Decide today that you are worth your time, your attention, and your money because you are! The first step towards taking control of the sadness, fear, or chaos can be as simple as a phone call. Make the call and take control today!
![Photo of Talisah Harrison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/466ee696-f4bc-4ca2-afc2-19b5284ab236/1/320x400.png)
Talisah Harrison is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, and community-based programs. She is passionate about educating individuals and families on the challenges of living with or supporting someone with a psychiatric condition and how to manage stressors. She specializes in treating mood disorders, anger and stress management, self-esteem issues, interpersonal communication, and family issues. Talisah completed her Master of Social Work at Rutgers University and her undergraduate at Temple University.
Talisah Harrison is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, and community-based programs. She is passionate about educating individuals and families on the challenges of living with or supporting someone with a psychiatric condition and how to manage stressors. She specializes in treating mood disorders, anger and stress management, self-esteem issues, interpersonal communication, and family issues. Talisah completed her Master of Social Work at Rutgers University and her undergraduate at Temple University.
![Photo of Karen Mitchell - Karen Mitchell: Teens, Adults, Families, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22a5885b-33f3-4101-ba5b-02d804b826cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Mitchell: Teens, Adults, Families
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
Welcome to KCM Therapy! I partner with teens, adults, and families to turn conflict into connection. Using evidence based practice, I help clients better understand their symptoms and assist them to decode what their body needs to feels safe. I support adults struggling to find meaning in their particular phase of life using neuroscience, EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. If you are interested to learn more, you may call for a free initial consultation (732) 656-8633, email me at karen at kcmtherapy.net, or visit www.kcmtherapyllc.com.
Welcome to KCM Therapy! I partner with teens, adults, and families to turn conflict into connection. Using evidence based practice, I help clients better understand their symptoms and assist them to decode what their body needs to feels safe. I support adults struggling to find meaning in their particular phase of life using neuroscience, EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. If you are interested to learn more, you may call for a free initial consultation (732) 656-8633, email me at karen at kcmtherapy.net, or visit www.kcmtherapyllc.com.
![Photo of Pauline David, MS, LPC, CCTP, NBC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cac330c9-a0e7-47f2-a3ca-13a88844d51a/2/320x400.png)
Pauline David
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP, NBC
Verified Verified
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
I have worked with addiction, trauma, severe mental illness, and clients moving through various life phases of self-development and growth. This has strengthened my humanistic approach in aiding clients in their healing and self-discovery journey. I strongly believe that no two people are the same even when presenting as extremely similar. In my humanistic approach, everyone has their own experiences, despite their mental health status, and should be equipped with the tools that will help them thrive in the world.
I have worked with addiction, trauma, severe mental illness, and clients moving through various life phases of self-development and growth. This has strengthened my humanistic approach in aiding clients in their healing and self-discovery journey. I strongly believe that no two people are the same even when presenting as extremely similar. In my humanistic approach, everyone has their own experiences, despite their mental health status, and should be equipped with the tools that will help them thrive in the world.
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Depression Therapists
What is the goal of therapy for depression?
Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.
What happens in therapy for depression?
Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.
What therapy types help with depression?
Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.
Can therapy for depression be done online?
Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.
How effective is therapy for depression?
Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.